AJ McLean and Cody Simpson open up about the darker side of the music industry, from exploitation and manipulation behind the scenes to the personal fallout of becoming famous too young.

AJ reflects on Lou Pearlman, the betrayal at the heart of the Backstreet Boys’ rise, and what it cost the band to break free, while Cody shares how early fame, unlimited access and pressure on a young brain pushed him into a period of partying, substance abuse and psychosis.

Together, their stories reveal the real cost of fame when success comes before you’re ready for it. We're Talking The Cost of Fame

This conversation includes discussion of addiction and mental health. We've included support charities below:

Campaign Against Living Miserably (CALM): https://g2ul0.app.link/npaQKXUV4Wb

(00:37) Lou Perlman’s Hold on the Backstreet Boys

(02:50) The Real Dynamic Between the Backstreet Boys and *NSYNC

(04:45) What Is Lou Perlman’s Legacy?

(09:14) Cody Reflects on the Dark Side of Fame at a Young Age

(16:42) Cody Opens Up About the Darkest Period of His Pop Career

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices